Voluntary Climbing Closure During June

Date: May 23, 2014
Contact: Nancy Stimson, 307 467 5283

Voluntary Climbing Closure During June

 Devils Tower, WY – A voluntary climbing closure at Devils Tower is in effect through the month of June.  Climbers are asked to refrain from climbing on the Tower during June out of respect for American Indians. June is a culturally significant month.

 The Access Fund, a nonprofit organization working to maintain access to climbing areas and protect the climbing environment, fully supports the voluntary climbing closure.  Up to 85% of climbers choose not to climb during June. Suggestions for alternative climbing areas are provided.

 "Traditional cultural activities occur at the park throughout the year, yet June is an especially significant time for Tribes. We hope climbers will consider these perspectives when deciding when to climb" said Reed Robinson, superintendent of Devils Tower National Monument.   

 The 1995 Devils Tower National Monument Climbing Management Plan established a voluntary closure for all climbing routes on the Tower. The voluntary closure has been implemented each June since 1996.  

 Climbing at the Tower dates back to the late 1800s when it was first scaled by two local ranchers using a wooden ladder. Today, climbers from around the world consider the Tower to be a unique and premier climbing area. Approximately 4,500 climbers come to Devils Tower each year. Although it is sometimes assumed that climbing damages the rock, contemporary climbing methods have little impact on the Tower.

 To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument, contact 307-467-5283, visit us online at www.nps.gov/deto or www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site.

                                                                                                 ~NPS~